How to apply

1. Get the application package

Read the guide before you fill in the forms. Make sure you’re eligible to sponsor a relative before you apply. We won’t refund the sponsorship application fee.

When submitting applications:

you’ll have to provide proof of income

your relatives must state they will try to support themselves

you must agree in writing to support your relatives for a set amount of time (3 to 20 years)

include all your relative’s dependent children (if any) on your relative’s application

include all the documents listed in the document checklist

missing information or documents can delay your application

All information in your application must be true. You must tell the truth about:

your family members (include them all on your application)

your marital status

any change in your case

The people you sponsor must also tell us about each of their close family members. These family members must have a security and criminality check and a medical exam. If they don’t, the sponsored person won’t be able to sponsor them in the future.

2. Pay your application fees

Biometrics fee

In most cases, you must pay a biometrics fee when you submit your application. Otherwise you may experience delays. The biometrics fee covers the cost of collecting fingerprints and a digital photo.

After you pay the biometrics fee with a complete application, we’ll send your family members a letter confirming that they need to give their biometrics and where they can go. Your family members must show this letter when they give their biometrics.

They must give their biometrics in person. They should book an appointment if this service is offered. Find a collection point.